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Food Feature

Joo: Korean maKGeollI cocKTaIls & yummy food

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PARADISO NuOvA DAy tRIP tO ISkANDAR MAlAySIA11 Apr, 8am-6pmIskandar Malaysia invites you to visit its Paradiso Malaysia Grand Gallery, where you will be treated to an exclusive tour of Paradiso Nuovo’s prestigious show units and the Iskandar Malaysia site. Snack on a free flow of pastries, canapes and finger food while you view the special star-buy units for sale only at this event. You can even

learn about investing in profitable property in the Central Business District of Medini with a free seminar by famous Iskandar Malaysia brand ambassador, Khalil Adis.

Slots are limited, so RSVP your attendance now. You could be living countless days in luxury in no time!To RSVP and to find out more, visit www.ibonus.iproperty.com.sg/zhuoyuan/ or SMS your <Name> and <Email> to 8511 1140.

AvENGERS: AGE OF ultRONThis Avengers movie sequel shows our favourite superheroes reassembling when a malevolent robot, Ultron, gains sentience, breaks free of its creator and completely mows through civilisation. How will the Avengers get their forces in one place to combat this new formidable enemy?

To prepare you for the release of Avengers: Age of Ultron, we’re giving away hampers of exclusive Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron premiums! Included in the hampers are: A keychain with interchangeable character disks, an Avengers logo notebook, silver charm bag tags, an Avengers logo adult T-shirt and an Ultron Light-Up USB!

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1NEW! FREE! bEN & JERRy’S FREE CONE DAy14 Apr, 12pm-8pmThe annual Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day returns across all scoops shops

in Singapore offering 18 flavours for free. Send your song requests via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #FCDSG and they will play your favourite tunes while you wait in line! Look out for loads of games, goodies and activities as well.Various locations, www.facebook.com/benjerrysingapore

tOP 5 EvENtS

2SINGAPORE HERItAGE FESt 201517 Apr-18 MayIn the festival’s spirit of celebration and discovery, explore familiar places, rediscover the lesser known and

forgotten stories behind their past, and come to appreciate them in a whole new way. From our humble beginnings on the banks of the Singapore River, to our heartlands and neighbourhoods that are unique in their own ways, join us as we celebrate not just what connects us as one, but also our diversity that make us truly Singaporean.Various locations, www.heritage.sg

3tHE WORlD StREEt FOOD CONGRESS 20158-12 AprEat your fill of comfort street food from the world’s best hawker food

artisans. From Mexican to Vietnamese food, digest the rich culture and traditions behind these well-loved international cuisines while you enrich your curious minds with street food industry insights and collaborate with global advocates.Bugis, 22 Tan Quee Lan St, www.hwsfcongress.com

music

others

tHE ultIMAtE AbbA ExPERIENCE – bJöRN AGAIN17-18 Apr, 10pm, from $45The only ABBA show officially endorsed by the members of ABBA, Björn Again has been delighting audiences worldwide for 25 years. Now, get ready as Björn Again presents a very special run of shows to celebrate its 25th Anniversary!MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg

tHE SCRIPt21 Apr, 8pm, from $98Selling over 20 million records with five Platinum singles, The Script will be back to perform songs from their latest album and favourites including “Breakeven” and “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved”.Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshub.com.sg

DEMI lOvAtO: DEMI WORlD tOuR IN SINGAPORE 201528 Apr, 7.30pm, from $68With mega hits such as “Let It Go”, “Skyscraper”, “Heart Attack”, “Give Your Heart A Break” and her current single “Nightingale”, Demi will be putting up a night of stellar performance for her first full-

scale concert in the Republic.Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hall 601-604, Level 6, www.sistic.com.sg

DA vINCI: SHAPING tHE FutuREUntil 17 May, 10am-7pm, $19 (adult), $10.50 (child)Combining his original works with innovative contemporary design, interactive exhibits, technology, film and contemporary art, the exhibition presents rich insights into Da Vinci’s art, science, technology and his fascination with nature. ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg

exhibitions

foodie paradise & ent

Photo: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com

surprisesW

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5new! KUMAR StAndS Up foR SingApoRe [R18]22-26 Apr, 8pm (Wed-Sun), 4pm (Sat-Sun), from $46Does Singapore have a

SUPERHERO standing up for us? You bet your bottom CPF dollar we do! Kumar spends April 2015 being our STB - Singapore’s Top Bapok – in “Standing Up for Singapore”. Come laugh with Kumar as you discover the true meaning of mari kita! Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.dreamacademy.com.sg/kumar-stands-up-for-singapore/

4MeghAn tRAinoR - thAt BASS toUR23 Apr, 7.30pm, from $128Already garnering rave reviews for her solid live performances, the “All About

That Bass” singer will wow you with her own blend of throwback hip-hop, classic pop, and

beat-heavy Caribbean music.The Coliseum, Hard Rock Hotel,

Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg

fRee! ChineSe ZodiAC heAdS: A gift fRoM JACKie ChAnUntil 31 MayTo celebrate the Year of the Goat, the ACM displays the 12 zodiac animal heads donated by celebrated film star Jackie Chan. Modelled after fountain sculptures looted from the Old Summer Palace outside Beijing, they were made for the 2012 movie CZ12. The sculptures were designed by the Taiwanese artist aPen and cast in bronze.Asian Civilisations Museum, www.acm.org.sg

BeAUty And the BeAStUntil 12 Apr, various timings, from $65From the original creators of the Broadway production with music by Alan Menken, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress.

If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, www.sistic.com.sg

new! Live SpeCtACLe: nARUto6-7 Jun, 1.30pm & 7pm, $58-$168The popular Japanese manga series is adapted into a musical and will see Naruto and his classmates start their duty as freshmen Ninja. This musical will explore the beginning of a journey where they are forced to face challenges and fatalities as well as Naruto’s personal struggle and friendship with Sasuke.Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa, www.sistic.com.sg

CoLd StoRAge KidS RUn 201517 May, price TBAThis year’s Cold Storage Kids Run reintroduces the 3Gen

Family Fun for grandparents to join in the fun with their families. You can also expect a sports-themed carnival, running clinics and sports introductory classes for a day of wholesome fun in the sun.The Meadow @ Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, www.kidsrun.com.sg

new! MeiJi RUn 201523 May, 2pm-8pm, $75The 5km fun run will consist of various instagram-worthy attraction points such as a life size Meiji Plain Crackers Maze and Hello Panda. Meiji is also holding a post-race party which includes a Meiji buffet, packed with a whole lot of chocolaty and milky goodness, for all participants who complete this year’s inaugural run.Sentosa, Port of Lost Wonder, www.meijirun.sg

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show offyour precious

newbornor toddler

Submit your BaBy’S BEST PhoTo and get a chance to be published!

Weekender’s hello, World! photo segment for babies is back!Immortalise your precious baby in print by getting his or her photo published! What

better way is there to celebrate your newborn or toddler than to show off your baby to the rest of the world?E-mail the cutest or sweetest photo of your baby to: general@weekender.com.sg with your Baby’s Name, Date of Birth, Your Name, Tel No., NRIC & Postal Code

here are our readers’ cutest snapshots!Weekender presents the return of our popular babies’ section. What better way to celebrate your little darling than to share him or her with the rest of the world? :)

Drea Koh Jia En, 6 Jul 2014

Camelia Wong Zhi Qian, 12 Sep 2014Jordan Chua, 24 Feb 2014

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familySlumber Pillow Fight Partay!11 Apr, 6.30pm-11pm, from $10Not all fights will end up with bloody noses and bruises. The Slumber Pillow Fight Partay will see family members and friends in teams of four trying to land a pillow-y hit, all in the name of fun. D’ Marquee @ Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, www.downtowneast.com.sg

interaction with live PonieS11-12 Apr, 1pm-8pmGet up close and personal with the ponies brought in from Gallop Stable! For a package price of $15, you’ll be able to go on a pony ride, hand feed the ponies and even take a photo with them to capture the moment. Be sure not to miss this opportunity!City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, Level 1 City Green, www.citysquaremall.com.sg

riSe & Shine carnival 201518 Apr, 8am-12pm, $20Come picnic and revel with your young ones at the popular family event: Rise & Shine Carnival! Let your little ones be enthralled by a mega fun line-up of activities from gigantic bouncy castles, sports try-outs, kids bubble party, kiddie ride circuit and loads more.The Float @ Marina Bay, www.riseandshine.com.sg/carnival2015

Free! what’S in my Sky?18 Apr, 8.30am-11amLearn and identify the many amazing birds of different species that pass through Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve or make it their home. Registration opens on 10 Apr on a first-come, first-serve basis.Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, www.nparks.gov.sg

tuliPmania 2015Until 10 May, 9am-9pmThis enchanting series of floral displays will draw visitors into the magical world of folklore, legends, fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Look out for captivating blooms like the scarlet “Red Riding Hood”, the “Purple Prince”, and the “Orange Princess” as they grace familiar fairy tale settings like Cinderella‘s carriage and the gingerbread house of Hansel and Gretel.Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, www.gardensbythebay.com.sg

the wind in the willowS12-14 Jun, various timings, from $42Fans of woodland adventures will be delighted with the stage adaption of The Wind in the Willows, one of the most celebrated works of literary classics for children by Kenneth Grahame.

Set in a charming English countryside, kids aged 5 and above are invited to join four friends, Mole, Ratty, Badger and Mr Toad on their picnics and boat rides, as they relate a powerful tale about friendship.SOTA, 1 Zubir Said Drive, www.sistic.com.sg

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weekender.com.sg

Manchester United geared to edge CityRed CaRd Football FeveR

The Barclays Premier League returned last weekend with amazing goals – Andy Penders gives his predictions for this weekend based on current standings

Is the Barclays Premier League season over, or is there more to play for? Chelsea has secured top spot, and the remaining Champions League spots all seem occupied.

However, there may be a few more twists and turns before the season’s out.

Manchester United vs Manchester city – sUn, 12 apr, 11pM (Live commentary on red card sports radio)Manchester United will be gunning for its sixth straight win. Rooney scored his 14th – and best – goal of the season against Aston Villa and currently looks unstoppable.

United may have dominated possession in last season’s corresponding fixture but it still went down 3-0 at Old Trafford. Also, in the first week of November, United were reduced to ten men at the Etihad and beaten 1-0 – a huge wake-up call for Louis van Gaal. The Dutch tactician has since answered his critics well and the Red Devils go into this tie as the favourites, after an impressive couple of months.

“It was another Manchester United (last November), I believe,” van Gaal told reporters after the win against Aston Villa last weekend, “That was more in the start of the process, and now we are in the end of the process.”

With self-belief fully-restored and United in excellent form to compete for 2nd place in the league at the very least, it will be a force to be reckoned with for Manuel Pellegrini’s men, especially after their shock loss to Crystal Palace on Tuesday. A rejuvenated Ander Herrera, who scored a brace against Aston Villa, adds to the potent mix that City will have to grapple with. Prediction: Manchester Utd 2-1 Manchester City

QUeens park rangers vs cheLsea – sUn, 12 apr, 8.30pM, (Live commentary on red card sports radio)Could this game at Loftus Road be another

stumbling block for Chelsea? Last season, the Blues could only manage four shots on target in a goalless affair against Queens Park Rangers and, given Chris Ramsey’s team’s ability to produce big moments, we could be set for another shock.

However, Jose Mourinho is a shrewd tactician and knows how to keep his squad fresh. Oscar, Willian and Diego Costa are the most substituted players this season and Chelsea will be hungry for success.Prediction: QPR 0-1 Chelsea

LiverpooL vs newcastLe United – tUe, 14 apr, 3aM (Live commentary on red card sports radio)Brendan Rodgers has accepted that a top-four finish is beyond Liverpool after its limitations were painfully exposed and the team was crushed 4-1 by Arsenal last weekend. The good news is that Newcastle is the visitor this time.

The Magpies endured a fifth straight derby defeat against Sunderland last weekend and while you have to concede that injuries are taking their toll on John Carver’s side (Mike Williamson was the only recognised centre-back available against the Black Cats), you also have to say that the men from St James’ Park already have their eyes on the summer holidays.

A repeat of last season’s score looks to be the best prediction.Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle

Red Card Sports Radio – 24/7 sports news and live football commentaries. Sports fans know more. Tune in on StarHub Ch 225.

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Left: Wayne Rooney is back to his best and should be on the score sheet again, against Manchester City

Right: Should Manuel Pellegrini be worried about his job after Manchester City has been dropping precious points?

aboUt andy pendersAndy Penders (@andypenders) is the Head of Sports at #RedCardConnect. Andy previously worked at ESPN Star Sports, Fox Sports, Mio Stadium and Zoom Sports.

EntErtainmEntWAPRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Editorial DirectorFrank Youngfrank@weekender.com.sg

Editor Lester J Wan

Art Director Sabrina Cao

Designer Zoe Lai Writer Pamela Chow

Intern Rydell Tan

Sales Director David Phey Head of Sales Karin Ng karin@weekender.sg

Team Lead Erwin Lim erwin@weekender.sg

Team Members Syarila Zainal Anabel Ang Martin Tan

Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekender Group Private Limited does not warrant the accu-racy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which appear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators. Except as otherwise expressly per-mitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner. Information accurate at time of writing.

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GETTING HARD COPIES:Weekender is delivered to hundreds of thousands of homes island-wide. You can also find copies (while supplies last) at:OvER 200 SElECTED 7-ElEvEN lOCATIONS ISlAND-WIDEFor actual locations, visit our website

Advisor James Yip DistributionLawrence Tan Coordinator Riki Zou Contributors Geralyne KayeAsh HashimShareen WongAndy Penders

sports feature

UEFA Champions League QF: Winners, losers & surprises

Whether it’s the rematch between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, dark horse Monaco who scraped through by the skin of its teeth or bad boy Zlatan Ibrahimovic and his stylish PSG gang, there are many reasons to catch the excitement in the upcoming quarter-final round of the UEFA Champions League.

Atletico MAdrid vs reAl MAdrid – 14 Apr The hotly-contested Madrid derby is a rematch of last year’s UEFA Champions League final, except the tables may have turned this year. Statically, Atletico Madrid (often dubbed the ‘less glamorous’ Madrid team), seems a stronger side than Real Madrid were last season, having taken three victories from Real in La Liga and the Copa del Rey (King’s Cup).

In the last instalment, Real scored a 4-1 extra-time victory and gloriously lifted what had been its elusive 10th European Cup / UEFA Champions League trophy. However, a series of injuries has seen the defending champion struggle to maintain a top four spot in La Liga and it seeks to change that against its city rivals.

Monaco has been underestiMated by Many. they defend well, have a coMpact Midfield and are dangerous on the counterattack.

Who are the real winners of this tie? The fans, no doubt. It’s going to be pure entertainment.

pAris st GerMAin vs BArcelonA – 15 Apr Did someone say Zlatan? It is always a rematch of epic proportions, whenever Paris St Germain and Barcelona meet.

Although they played each other in the group stage last October, with Barca winning the first leg at home and PSG coming back to win 3-2 in Paris, this quarter-final meeting is akin to settling an old score – especially if it involves controversial Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who recently called on Chelsea’s players for acting like “babies” towards the referee in their round-of-16 game.

The 33-year-old who played for Barcelona during a memorable 2009/10 season also had a bitter feud with then coach Pep Guardiola, over not picking him for games. It led to him achieving cult-status online after making jabs at Guardiola.

Quotes such as, “You bought a Ferrari but you drive it like a Fiat,” (referring to himself) and “An injured Zlatan is a properly serious

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thing for any team”, have earned him new fans from all around the world. With classic quotes like that – and guaranteed beautiful football from Barcelona – it is a blockbuster match you can’t miss.

Juventus vs MonAco – 14 Apr French Ligue 1 side FC Monaco is certainly the surprise package in this competition. Monaco barely scraped past Arsenal in its last qualifying match, losing 0-2 at home to hold on dearly to the precious 3-1 first leg aggregate.

It has even been widely suggested that the Italian side were lucky to draw Monaco in the last eight, which sets them up as the team with more to lose in this tie. Avoiding the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid have boosted Juventus’s hopes of making the semi-finals for the first time since 2003, when they lost in the final in a penalty shootout to AC Milan.

“Monaco has been underestimated by many. They defend well, have a compact midfield and are dangerous on the counterattack,” said Juventus and former Manchester United player, Carlos Tevez.

porto vs BAyern – 15 AprIt’s safe to say that the bigger winner of this draw is Bavarian giant Bayern Munich, who will meet Portuguese side Porto.

FC Porto will have to dig deep to summon the spirit of 1987 – the year etched into its record books, where it saw off Bayern in the final. Although it is unlikely to pull off the same feat, the golden rule of football (that anything could happen) applies here.

Said Philipp Lahm, Captain of Bayern Munich, “We could have drawn a more uncomfortable opponent. But Porto reached the quarter-finals in convincing style and they showed their quality. For us, it is important to get a better result in the first leg (of the quarter-final) than in the round of 16 [0-0 at FC Shakhtar Donetsk].”

Lahm, of course, is being modest. Bayern has been an absolute giant in the Champions League so far this season, averaging a goal average of 2.88 per match.

“In football today, it doesn’t really make a difference if you play the first match home or away. Porto are a technically strong side; they don’t just defend with a deep line but want to take the initiative as well,” added Lahm, who won the World Cup with Germany last year.

“We will have more possession in both matches, so everything will depend on our performance,” he concluded.

By Ash Hashim

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals begin on Apr 14. Who are your picks for the semi-finals?

Top: Who will lay their hands on the coveted UEFA Champions League trophy and be kings of Europe?

Left: Bad boy Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Paris St Germain is no doubt one of the most high-profile stars of the quarter-final stage

Europe’s footballing elite are set to square off in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals – we examine the biggest winners, losers and surprises so far

Photo: UEFA.com

Dear Weekender readers,

Thank you for faithfully reading our articles. It has been one wild ride this past two and a half years and we appreciate all the support you’ve given us all this while.

From this issue onwards, Weekender is now a thicker 28-page issue, including new types of content. This is part of our initiative to keep evolving and improving, and giving you more fun ideas and value for your weekends.

Please note, there will be no Weekender issue next week but look out for our all-new edition of Weekender come Apr 24, with a completely revamped look!

I know, right? Weekends are looking even more interesting! Thanks again for your support and stay tuned for more interesting articles and content coming up.

look out for the All-new weekender

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kaypoh korner

Singaporean things foreigners know us forThere are many things to love about our country but what do foreigners think of when we mention Singapore?

Contrary to popular belief, we are famous for numerous things other than our anti-chewing gum law. (Although it still has a sticky impression among many foreigners.)

Our tiny yet mighty nation has in fact impressed people around the world with its lovely offerings. Here are the top four things that we hear the most about Singapore that always put a proud grin on our faces!

1. “The only Thing i love more Than singapore is Chilli Crab.”Attend any concert, meet-and-greet or conference held by an overseas artist and you’re sure to hear these two mouth-watering words pop up. International stars are addicted to our iconic chilli crab dish, and they never fail to rave about it to their fans!

It’s little wonder why this delicacy has gained such a celebrity following. The thick, tangy and salty gravy that coats the crab is half the dish itself. Something about the way the succulent meat soaks up the sour and slightly spicy chilli sauce makes these superstars brave our heat and humidity just for a bite (or a slurp).

This dish was created in 1950 by Mdm Cher Yam Tian, and it’s been our unofficial national dish since. Die-hard fans include Gwyneth Paltrow and Korea’s idol groups. (We heard Super Junior ordered $10,000 worth of local Singaporean food, including chilli crab). And, as we had previously reported, Master Chef Gordon Ramsay even attempted his version of it.

2. “iT’s so Clean!”Almost every foreigner I meet – whether in Singapore or overseas – gushes about how clean our city is. Even the Japanese, who are often worshipped for their public hygiene, sing praises of our spotless streets and clear skies.

Our Garden City title really holds up, with more than 80 per cent of our land covered in greenery. After hearing this compliment from so many different nationalities, I’ve come to appreciate even greater the hard work that our cleaners put into maintaining our spanking-clean streets!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Chilli crab is easily the star of the show as one of Singapore’s most famous offerings

Singapore is world-renowned for its spick-and-span cleanliness, thanks to our hardworking cleaners

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“Game of Thrones” won a host of Emmy Awards last year, including for Outstanding Special and Visual Effects and Outstanding Costumes for a Series

Cersei fears for her daughter’s safety in Dorne as Ellaria Sand seeks revenge for Oberyn’s death

new on tv

Game of Thrones Season 5: Intrigue & power struggle resumeBe one of the first in Asia to catch the new episodes of HBO’s acclaimed series Game of Thrones – Season 5 is upon us!

Following the flurry of teasers, red carpet affairs and interviews spreading across the Internet, the hype for Game of Thrones Season 5 is at an all-time high.

Never fear, the continuation draws near. The highly-anticipated new season is returning for ten heart-stopping episodes, premiering on Monday, Apr 13 at 9am, with a primetime encore at 9pm on the same day, exclusively on HBO.

of seCreTs and sTrugglesBased on the bestselling fantasy book series by George RR Martin, the hit series tells an epic tale of treachery and nobility set on the mythical continent of Westeros, where only the lust for power is eternal.

Season 5 will follow Jon Snow in his struggle to balance the demands of the Night’s Watch with those of the newly-arrived Stannis Baratheon, who styles himself the rightful king of Westeros.

Meanwhile, Cersei scrambles to hold on to power in King’s Landing amidst the Tyrells and the rise of a religious group led by High Sparrow, while Tyrion uncovers news of a conspiracy.

Across the Narrow Sea, Arya seeks an old friend and a fugitive Tyrion finds a new cause. And, as danger mounts in Meereen, Daenerys finds that her tenuous hold on the city requires difficult sacrifices.

gripping suspenseEpisode 42: “The House of Black and White”, which premieres on Monday Apr 20, at 9am, looks set to be especially riveting. Cersei’s daughter is in peril in Dorne, as Ellaria Sand thirsts for revenge following Oberyn’s demise.

Meanwhile, a series of temptations are presented to Jon and Daenerys against their better judgment.

favouriTes baCk wiTh new sTarsGame of Thrones fans will be elated to see several returning regulars this season. These include Emmy and Golden Globe winner Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister, Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister, Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen, Kit Harington as Jon Snow, and Maisie Williams as Arya Stark.

But look out also for the new faces joining the fight in Season 5, including Jonathan Pryce (the High Sparrow), Alexander Siddig (Doran Martell), DeObia Oparei (Areo Hotah) and Keisha Castle-Hughes (Obara Sand), known for Whale Rider and The Nativity Story.

The besT series everAmong the critical acclaim that the Game of Thrones series has received, the Los Angeles Times has praised it as “the best television show ever”, adding that “no other series comes close”. The Hollywood Reporter writes, “The consistency of excellence in Game of Thrones is truly something to behold.”

In August last year, the series was the recipient of a host of Emmy Awards, including for Outstanding Special and Visual Effects and Outstanding Costumes for a Series.

We have no doubt that Season 5 of Game of Thrones will top all that but just how will it do so? We can’t wait to find out.

Game of Thrones Season 5 premieres Apr 13 at 9am on HBO, StarHub TV Ch. 601. You can also catch the past season of Game of Thrones on HBO On Demand (StarHub TV Ch. 602).

Nymeria Sand is one of the insidious Sand Snakes

Arya arrives in Braavos – what does the future hold?

Across the NArrow seA, AryA seeks AN old frieNd

ANd A fugitive tyrioN fiNds A New cAuse. ANd, As

dANger mouNts iN meereeN, dAeNerys fiNds thAt her

teNuous hold oN the city requires difficult sAcrifices.

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3. “ThaT gorgeous InfInITy Pool wITh The vIew”The infinity pool sprawled atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel is one of the most sought after chill-out spots and views in the world. It’s heralded in travel publications and has gone viral on several online sites. It even frequently pops up on social media. It seems everyone wants a piece of it!

Who wouldn’t love this view? Overlooking the spectacular cityscape of Singapore’s Central Business District, including Fullerton Bay and the Esplanade, this is the highest and largest infinity pool on Earth.

4. “I’d Travel To sIngaPore jusT for ChangI aIrPorT.”Changi Airport isn’t just an airport. It goes out of its way to be a shopping hub, food hub, aviation hub, transport hub and tourism hub – it’s practically a “hub” hub!

Most certainly a hallmark of our nation’s success, our international airport has received innumerable awards and acclaim for its hospitality and accessibility. In 2014 alone, 54.1 million passengers transited through Changi Airport’s halls – that’s ten times our population.

For many visitors, Changi Airport is the first and last point of contact with Singapore. All the more it’s important to leave them with an everlasting good impression. I’d say we’ve done an excellent job of that!

By Pamela Chow

One of the most sought after in the world, Marina Bay Sands’ infinity pool is the largest and highest of them all

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halls – that’s ten tImes our populatIon.

star of the week

Edmund Chen: Actor, family man & artist

Channel 8 star Edmund Chen shares the highlights of his acting career and talks about his latest artistic drawings for limited edition suitcases

Most television viewers know Edmund Chen, the ever youthful-looking veteran actor, but do you know he is an artist?

Edmund Chen is famous for starring in countless Channel 8 drama series since the late ‘80s, including “Star Maiden” and “Patrol”, in which he met his wife, the screen legend Xiang Yun. In 2013, his other talent gained renown when his artwork “Designs by Edmund Chen” was awarded the Guinness World Record for “Longest Drawing by an Individual”.

Edmund shares with Weekender the highlights of his acting career, and how he became interested in drawing.

you gaIned fame Through ChInese drama serIes on Channel 8. whICh was your favourITe? I have several that are very close to my heart. The first would be my maiden project, “Sunshine after Rain”, which launched my career and provided the gateway into this exciting industry.

The second would be “Patrol”. This project made me a uniformed man for the next ten years and, of course, brought me a wife since we acted together. This is followed by “Darkest Hour”, where I played my first villain role, and “Man at Forty” and “Zero to Hero”, where the roles were much deeper with more diversity in character development. afTer aCTIng In so many dramas, who Is your favourITe Co-sTar? [you don’T have To say your wIfe.] I enjoyed working with most actors but if I have to name a few it would have to be Liu Qian Yi (Richard Low), and Andrew Seow for “Man at Forty”. We became best pals following the shooting of the drama serial.

whaT’s The mosT dIffICulT sITuaTIon you’ve been PuT In whIle aCTIng?Haha, there are many, like having to shower under the icy recycled studio water in front of the entire crew, waking up at 4am and having to fight like a dragon (when you are exhausted), looking fresh and remembering all the lines after four days and three nights of non-stop filming, and I was doing two different dramas at the same time.

Another situation was jumping into the kelong’s fishing net filled with fish, in the open sea, in the middle of the night. The worst was to act “laying dead” in the coffin at the Mandai crematorium. As you can see, an actor’s life is really not all that glamourous.

whaT’s The funnIesT InCIdenT ThaT’s haPPened To you on seT?It was when I played a gynaecologist and most of the time my patients had to hold a light between their legs to shine on my face... As you can tell, I literally never failed to see the light after each ‘delivery’.

If your ChIldren wanT To beCome aCTors, whaT would you say To Them? I will encourage my children to follow their dreams and aspirations. Both children were invited for some projects, and both of them were involved in my movie project and they enjoyed it very much.

As a parent I believe that so long as my children can manage their lives and are content to deal with the processes that come along with it, it is fine by me. I want them to be happy and see the world and envision the very best for their lives as children and later as adults.

when dId you sTarT drawIng or desIgnIng? whaT InsPIred you To go InTo ThaT?Growing up, I did not come from a well-to-do family. I visited my schoolmate one afternoon after school, and fell in love with the aquarium in his house. As we could not afford one of our own, I decided to draw the aquarium so that I could keep it as a memento.

I drew the fishes in the aquarium and would look at it every day. Later, I found out from my schoolmate that the fishes had died and they did not have an aquarium anymore.

It was then I realised that even though the aquarium was gone, the memories of the fishes remained steadfast and strong in my drawing. It was at that point that I discovered my love for drawing.

Drawing is also a family-bonding activity for me to get closer to my children, and a tool for self-expression among us. your arTwork “desIgns by edmund Chen” was awarded The guInness world reCord for The longesT drawIng by an IndIvIdual In 2013. whaT InsPIred you To do ThaT? My initial thought was simply to spread and share the message on cherishing the moment of our lives. I chose to draw about it as it was one of the better ways that I could express myself.

how dId you deCIde To CollaboraTe wITh samsonITe To desIgn The lImITed edITIon “CherIsh” ColleCTIon? My first luggage case – a borrowed one as I could not afford one back then – was a Samsonite, and as my current luggage case is getting a little worn, I was hoping to get a new one and went to a friend that I know from Samsonite for some good recommendations.

We chatted a bit and stumbled across the idea to have my artwork emblazoned on it. It has been a great honour to be working with Samsonite as they are very supportive of my commitment towards social good.

Only a limited run of 100 pieces in two sizes of the Spring design is available for sale individually. There are only five exclusive sets of the entire Cherish collection, comprising of Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter available for sale, with full proceeds going towards Thye Hua Kwan Hospital in support of dementia patients.

This is a social cause that is very close to my heart as I have a relative suffering from it. whaT Is The besT Travel exPerIenCe you’ve had wITh your famIly?I have enjoyed every single holiday my family and I have made, and the places we have been to. For me, it is always the journey and not the end destination that is important to me.

Interview by Lester J Wan

The “Cherish” designs in the four seasons by Edmund Chen on Samsonite suitcases are available in limited quantities in Samsonite stores.

Edmund was commissioned to design the “Cherish” collection, in support of dementia patients

Designs for Summer (left) and Winter

PAGE 9

weekender.com.sg

entertainment feature

UnlUcky Plaza oPened to sold-oUt screenings at two international film festivals, thanks to its dark jokes and nail-biting sUsPense

UnlUcky Plaza:

If a group of Singaporeans gets taken hostage, would you laugh?

It sounds like a cold question to ask, but try answering it after you watch Unlucky Plaza.

The dark comedy stars Onassis Hernandez (Epy Quizon), a single father and proud owner of Lucky Plaza’s most popular Filipino restaurant. Following a food-poisoning conspiracy and a money-laundering scam, Onassis reaches his breaking point.

In a matter of hours, the lives of five people change forever when Onassis holds them hostage in a millionaire’s luxury bungalow.

Funny BusinessReal-life hostage situations are no laughing matter. But Unlucky Plaza takes a somewhat comical and intriguing spin on it, making you dig a little deeper beneath the surface.

Among the hostages are arrogant motivational speaker Terence Chia (Adrian Pang) and his unfaithful wife Michelle Chan (Judee Tan). This couple, no doubt victims, is portrayed as caricatures of the privileged and complacent upper class.

While Terence rings in the riches with his flamboyant speeches and demi-god complex, his wife Michelle desperately throws herself “out there”. You can try, but the film makes it a challenge to sympathise with this pair.

In the movie’s trailer, Terence cockily quips, “What kind of ordinary guy has a gun? This is Singapore!” The wealthy man wackily tumbles when Onassis pulls out a real gun. It’s kind of hard not to chortle at this gag.

Much Ado ABout soMethingInterestingly, Onassis – the kidnapper – pleads into the camera that he’s “not doing this for money”.

Why else then would he threaten the lives of a wealthy couple, a gangster and a religious man? And will the broken man emerge a villain or victim?

That’s just two of the many questions in Unlucky Plaza that you’ll find yourself itching to get the answer to. But don’t expect an easy way out – director Ken Kwek will make watching this film worth your while.

Viewing the trailer alone, I’m already clutching the edge of my seat, desperate to know who survives, if anyone loses any limbs and – most importantly – where I can get the delicious dinners that Onassis’ restaurant has.

Lucky opening nuMBersContrary to Unlucky Plaza’s name, Kwek was very fortunate with his opening numbers.

I’m not talking about striking 4D. When Unlucky Plaza opened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Singapore International Film Festival last year, it sold out all of its screenings.

This has been a lucky streak for Kwek, considering his previous film, 2013 satire Sex.Violence.FamilyValues, was banned in both Singapore and Malaysia.

TIFF programmer Giovanna Fulvi writes, “This suspenseful debut feature… grabs your attention from its teaser of an opening and doesn’t let go until its strange, satisfying finish.”

Make sure you snap up your tickets so you’re not unlucky enough to miss it!

By Pamela Chow

unLucky pLAzA [M18]director: Ken KwekstArring: Epy Quizon, Adrian Pang, Judee Tan, Shane Mardjuki, Guo Liang & Pam Oeigenre: Dark Comedyrun Length: 122 minreLeAse: 16 Apr

Banned local director gets puBlic release here

this sUsPensefUl debUt featUre… grabs yoUr attention from its teaser of an oPening and doesn’t let go Until its strange, satisfying finish.

Adrian Pang (left) plays arrogant and materialistic motivational speaker Terence Chia, who becomes one of the hostages

Unfaithful wife Michelle Chan (Judee Tan) is unhappy with her marriage and throws herself “out there”

Unlucky Plaza is a mix of thought-provoking tension and dark humour

Once the owner of a famous Filipino restaurant, Onassis has been plunged into dire financial straits

EntErtainmEntw wEEkEndEr.com.sg

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015 PAGE 10

ALSO IN THEATRES

THE GUNMAN [NC16]Two-time Academy Award-winner Sean Penn stars in The Gunman, an action-thriller by the director of Taken, Pierre Morel.

When a sniper on an assassination team successfully kills the

minister of Congo, he is forced into hiding. Terrier (Sean Penn), finds himself being a target of a hit squad when he returns to Congo years later.

Will he be able to survive the hit squad?STARRING: Sean Penn, Idris Elba, Javier Bardem & Ray WinstoneGENRE: Action, Crime, DramaRELEASE: 9 Apr

THE LONGEST RIDE [PG13]Based on the bestselling novel by master storyteller Nicholas Sparks, The Longest Ride centres on a love story between Luke (Sean Eastwood), a young bull rider and Sophia (Brittany

Robertson), a college student. They cross paths with Ira (Alan Alda),

whose memories of his decades-long romance deeply inspires the couple as they go through conflicting paths and ideals.

Will their relationship be able to withstand the trials?STARRING: Sean Eastwood, Brittany Robertson, Alan Alda,

Oona Chaplin & Jack HustonGENRE: Romance, Drama RELEASE: 9 Apr

PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 [PG] In this comedy sequel, Paul (Kevin James) the security guard heads to Las Vegas to attend a Security Guard Expo with his teenage daughter (Raini Rodriguez).

While at this convention, he inadvertently discovers a heist and it is up to him to stop the criminals and save the day. STARRING: Kevin James, Raini Rodriguez,

Neal McDonough & Shirley KnightGENRE: Comedy RELEASE: 7 Apr

SKIN TRADE [TBA]New Jersey detective Nick (Dolph Lundgren) teams up with Thai detective Tony (Tony Jaa) to hunt down and destroy Viktor Dragovic (Ron Perlman) and his human trafficking network.

Having killed Dragovic’s son by mistake, Nick and his family become targets on his hit list. Unfortunately, Nick’s wife and daughter did not survive and Nick is left with nothing but vengeance.

As the crossfire ensues, Nick has to figure out who his true allies are.STARRING: Dolph Lundgren, Tony Jaa & Ron Perlman GENRE: Action, DramaRELEASE: 16 Apr

Average guy vs giant robot overlords

Step aside, futuristic city in ruins. Robot Overlords shows us how small-town teenage heroes save the day

Imagine a small, peaceful seaside town in Britain at midday, with everyone resting within their dreamy cottage apartment houses.

Suddenly, a giant menacing robot crashes down the street, hot on the heels of a teenage boy.

Earth has been conquered by robots from a distant galaxy. Survivors are confined to their houses and must wear electronic implants to be monitored by the intimidating invaders.

SMALL TOwN, BIG TROUBLEBut instead of the usual overrun metropolis we see in movies, Robot Overlords is set in a quiet British town, where a group of friends unexpectedly discovers a clever way to evade the deadly robots.

The heroes in question? A group of teenagers, headed by Sean (Callan McAuliffe), Alex (Ella Hunt), Nathan (James Tarpey), and young Connor (Milo Parker).

They’ve been trapped in their homes for three years but when they discover a loophole in the system, the friends head off in search of Sean’s missing father.

Director Jon Wright said, “You don’t typically see robots in a small seaside town. Our heroes are average in the best sense of the word. The place where they live is the kind of town a lot of people will recognise as the kind of town they live in.”

ENEMy ALERTProwling the sleepy streets of this town are formidable Sentries that incinerate any human on sight. Sniper Sentries are merciless death machines, and The Mediator is deceptively childlike – but powerful nonetheless.

However, the machines aren’t the only villains in this story. The Voluntary Corps – humans who have sided with the robots – also aggressively enforce the robot quarantine law.

Among them is Mr Smythe (Ben Kingsley), a former Geography teacher, who leads the pack in chasing down our teenage heroes. But Smythe is no one-dimensional villain.

Kingsley, who is acclaimed for his work in Ghandi (1982), Schindler’s List (1993) and Iron Man 3 (2013), said, “What else do you expect Smythe to have done in a situation like that? Do you join the weakest? Or do you join the strongest? I imagine this chap has been pragmatic.”

FROM DREAM TO DISASTER FANTASyThis breathtaking fantasy all started from a vivid dream that director Jon Wright had.

“A father and son [were] playing a cat-and-mouse game with Nerf guns in a house,” said Wright. “They threw open the curtains, revealing a massive robot that leaned in and threatened to annihilate them. They dropped their weapons immediately and I woke up.”

The dream came to him while he was working on award-winning comedy monster film Grabbers (2012).

It seems that, unlike the many glamorised Hollywood sci-fi movies we’ve seen, Robot Overlords shows you how ordinary people would cope with survival.

Actress Gillian Anderson, known to play secret agents and female bosses (like on TV’s “The X-Files” and “Hannibal”) and who now acts as Sean’s mother, asked , “How would an English teacher run in the woods? What kind of fear would be playing across her face? What if I’m just a mum and robots have taken over the Earth?”

mOvIE pREvIEw

Will Sean (second from right) and his friends be able to find a way to save humanity from the evil robots, and uncover the truth behind their invasion?

Indeed, how would you behave if this really happens? Would you fight to see metal marauders burn or run screaming after teenage rebels? That’s something to think about!

By Pamela Chow

ROBOT OvERLORDS [PG]DIRECTOR: Jon WrightSTARRING: Ben Kingsley, Gillian Anderson, Callan McAuliffe & Ella HuntGENRE: Sci-Fi, Action, AdventureRUN LENGTH: 90 minRELEASE: 16 Apr

Sean discovers a way to possibly defeat the robot invaders

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg

PAGE 11

Food Feature

ReboRn KoRean concoctionsSingapore haS had good Korean reStaurantS for Some time but aS our faScination for all thingS Korean matureS, more and better thingS to Satiate our curioSity ariSe

With the ascendency of K-Pop and K-Drama in Singapore, it hasn’t taken long for other elements of Korean culture to arrive onto our shores.

Joo Bar, a modern Korean eatery, is a recent addition. Located on Tan Quee Lan Street, Joo Bar is the creation of two Korean food and culture aficionados, Jamie and Kristin Lim, who wanted to introduce Korean bites along with traditional Korean drinks, called makgeolli, with a modern twist.

Makgeolli ResuRgencyA traditional favourite among Korean farmers, “makgeolli”, meaning “coarsely-filtered” in Korean, is a whitish, milky, alcohol commonly brewed from rice. On its own, makgeolli has subtle sweetness, thin viscosity, and very faint scent. Its whitish colour is quite soothing in appearance and evokes the innocence of milk.

But beware, its alcohol content is higher than beer at 6 to 8 per cent. Recently, makgeolli’s popularity has grown in Korean cities’ hipster bars and eateries, where younger urbanites imbibe makgeolli while nibbling on titbits.

Joo cocktails with a twistWithin the historic three-storey shophouse Joo Bar offers a variety of makgeolli home brewed using organic rice and purified water, and mixes it with other liquor for colour and flavours. One can opt for the traditional makgeolli or any of the more creative mixes such as the Grape Soju Mojito ($14/glass), Yucha Makgeolli Slush (small, $22), or the Sojurita ($28, serves 2 to 4 people).

The Yucha Sojurita was my favourite – a monster-sized glass filled with frozen soju-yuzu Cointreau-lemon juice mixed with an overturned bottle of Hite beer stuck in the middle. It reminded me of a 7-Eleven Slurpee:

Sweet, slushy-cold and tasty, yet packed with an alcoholic punch.

For the more curious, Joo has created speciality makgeollis – The Busan Breeze ($20), Gangnam Dreaming ($22), Hong Dae Tripping ($24) and Itaewon Freedom ($22) – each one a tribute to specific regions in Korea. Each drink comes in pretty, soft pastel colours, which immediately evoke a sense of tropical fun.

For ladies who prefer a subtler presence of alcohol, these drinks are pleasantly balanced to mask the alcohol taste. It will be hard to stop at one. For $20-plus each, a night of indulgence will add up fast. So let this be a warning for budget-conscious guys who intend to bring their dates!

one cannot live on alcohol aloneWhat should follow luscious libations? Great food, of course. So it would be a travesty not to mention the food at Joo Bar. Unlike traditional restaurants, Joo’s food is designed to go well with the drinking experience.

Its Baby Eel Paper ($14), which is deep fried baby eel sprinkled with chilli salt and lime zest, was a first for me. The crispiness and saltiness complemented the sweet, cold cocktails perfectly.

haiRy hungaRian hogs called MangalitsaJoo also serves Mangalitsa (a breed of hairy Hungarian hog) pork belly, which was rich and flavourful compared to our local pork.

Order Joo’s slow-roasted ($32) pork belly served with onions, garlic and Dijon mustard with a side of spring onion salad, or the boiled ($28) version with a side of spicy radish salad and yuzu kimchi. They come in finger-friendly pre-sliced, small portions.

spaM delicacy?Finally, the Warm Kimchi with Tofu and Spam ($16) defied expectations. In the past, US soldiers brought “Spam” (a type of canned meat) into Korean culture, and it wasn’t meant to be a gourmet experience. However, the way Joo interleaved the Spam with equal-sized tofu slices made it surprisingly delicate and tasty.

Just to be clear, Spam is, of course, not in the same league as Wagyu in terms of pleasure of taste. But Joo’s Spam dish exceeded my expectations of this humble canned meat. Kudos to Joo.

Joo Bar, 5 Tan Quee Lan Street, Singapore 188094, Tel: 8138 1628

By Frank Young

Left: Delightfully colourful, Joo’s makgeolli cocktails go perfectly with Korean titbits

Top Right: The Boiled Mangalitsa Pork Belly is yummy

Bottom Right: Deep fried Baby Eel Paper – surprisingly good!

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg

PAGE 12

Shelter

new notables

Some of the newest eateries and menus in town for you to check out

Shelter in the WoodSReviewed in Jan 23 issue

The recently-revamped Shelter in the Woods looks brighter, yet the familiar comfort of a cosy log cabin still beckons one to enter, and to be greeted by wafting aromas.

Going back to Shelter in the Woods after some time feels like returning to a cosy haven. It is good to see that the good service of the staff and homeliness of the overall ambience still prevail. The new menu is by its new chef, who honed his craft in Michelin-starred restaurants.

22 Greenwood Avenue, Singapore 289218

Pong gelatoBringing the local Thai street food found at the heart of Chatuchak, Bangkok right to the heart of Singapore, the coconut ice cream in a husk is now in reach with just a bus or MRT ride.

Opened by a brother-in-law team, of which one of them is Thai, the coconut gelato in a husk has been revamped with an additional sorbet flavour of your choice.

Scape 2, Orchard Link, #02-18C, Singapore 237978

BocaCraving for Portugal but know it’s a long shot considering the 15-hour flight? Worry not. This new restaurant will be sure to deliver Portugal to you on a platter.

From the main focus of seafood to petisco – small servings of food to accompany the assortment of Portugal-fermented wines – Boca will be sure to satisfy your cravings in one meal. May cost more than your usual meal.

6 Bukit Pasoh, Singapore 089820

Jin Shan Lou: Posh porridge at Marina Bay Sands

Can Taiwanese porridge be a status symbol? Perhaps, if you dine at Jin Shan Lou.

Marina Bay Sands — or what I like to refer to as Singapore’s temple dedicated to extravagance — is home to Jin Shan Lou, the opulent restaurant located at Tower 2 of the hotel’s lobby.

Jin Shan Lou serves Chinese cuisine to its mostly affluent clientele, from bean sprouts to whole sharks fin.

Making rooM for taiWaneSe PorridgeJin Shan Lou’s award-winning Master Chef, Mr Huang Ching Biao, has added Taiwanese porridge supper to the traditional Sichuan, Hunan and Cantonese offering. With several dozen classic appetizers and speciality dishes on the Taiwanese Supper Menu, patrons can fill their bellies with lavish dishes after a long day.

With very few options for Taiwanese porridge after 10.30pm – at least ones that don’t involve sitting on plastic stools, and with servers wearing singlets and red clogs – diners can enjoy the grandiosity of the hotel’s towering glass windows, plush red velvet chairs, and proper china, while slurping down mouthfuls of porridge.

SiMPle and coMfortingI have tried many different porridges around the world, and it’s one of those simple dishes where the quality remains high regardless of the price.

The main difference is perhaps in the dishes that complement it, such as century eggs with preserved ginger, minced pork with salted fish, etc. Even then, most of the classic dishes are so simply constructed that it’s very hard to differentiate the quality, of one stall or restaurant compared to another.

Because of the commonness of porridge, it evokes a sense of comfort without pompousness. Jin Shan Lou’s classic Taiwanese supper dishes evoke the same kind of feeling.

The comforting white porridge ($5 per bowl), made from Thai Hom Mali rice and Australian short grain rice, is punctuated with large chunks of sweet potato. The texture of the porridge is light and smooth, and with very subtle rice sweetness. I would have preferred the sweet potato to be sweeter but I guess that’s just the house style.

the Main attractionThe ‘blandness’ of porridge is the perfect canvas to feature types of food loaded with strong umami taste. And Jin Shan Lou’s palette of steamed minced pork with salted

fish ($16), fried Pomfret with fermented bean sauce ($18), stir-fried Chinese cabbage with dried shrimp ($16), stewed pork belly with preserved vegetable ($16), sautéed bean sprouts with salted fish ($18), and deep-fried shrimp paste with chicken ($24.00) makes full use of it.

In addition, Jin Shan Lou also offers Taiwanese Fragrant Wine Chicken with Basil & Spices ($20), Chinese Omelette with Pickled Radish ($16) and many others.

Catering to the local palate, the menu also includes popular sambal dishes such as stir-fried fresh prawns ($22), stir-fried fresh sotong ($28), or sauteed kang kong ($18).

SuBtly refinedTaste wise, all its dishes are well-balanced, not oily like at many conventional porridge stalls, and the flavours are more subtle and refined to be eaten without porridge. However, if you are the type who enjoys balancing the dishes’ saltiness and savouriness with every mouthful of porridge, then you may find the dishes a bit too subtle.

And unlike conventional porridge shops, where the ingredients tend to be more “home style”, Jin Shan Lou’s are professionally-prepared and presented. After all, wouldn’t you expect that from a Master Chef with over 40 years of experience?

For dessert, I’d recommend the aloe vera with sago topped with ice cream in whole coconut ($16). I don’t know if this is traditional Taiwanese but the taste experience is seductively sublime. It’s a must-try.

Porridge: a StatuS SyMBol?Don’t expect to find an average porridge experience at Jin Shan Lou. From the rich ambience of Marina Bay Sands Hotel to its refined dishes, it exudes sophistication and prestige.

This is a great place to impress your date or guests for supper, even if the craving is for humble porridge.

Jin Shan Lou, Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Tower 2, Hotel Lobby, Tel: 6688 7733

Porridge supper is served from 10.30pm to 2.30am nightly.

By Frank Young

Top: A lavish spread for late nights with Taiwanese porridge

Bottom: Aloe vera with sago topped with ice cream in whole coconut

Award-winning Master Chef of Jin Shan Lou,Mr Huang Ching Biao.

new menu

weekender.com.sgAPRIL 10 - 23, 2015

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Foodmaniaw weekender.com.sg

PAGE 14

Ricotta Baked FruitsEXECUTIVE CHEF RECIPE

NEw FIEsTa

This simple, warm dish is both refreshing and comforting at the same time

For some unknown reason, in our little part of the world, we don’t have baked fruit so often. This is a pity as we miss out on the rich burst of flavours.

This Ricotta Baked Fruits dish by Chef Fahmi Widarte, Corporate Chef of Greenfields, combines the fresh with the savoury, using Greenfields Ricotta Cheese to complement the fruitiness. Best of all, it is very easy to make and takes only 20 min of prep time and 5 min of cooking time.

INGREDIENTS• 250ml Vanilla Yoghurt

• 200g Greenfields Ricotta Cheese

• 2ml Grated Lemon Zest

• 7ml Fresh Lemon Juice

• 300g Mixed Fruit

(such as plums, peach, strawberry, raspberry &

blueberry)

• 100g Brown Sugar

Serves 4

METHOD1. Mix yoghurt, ricotta cheese, grated lemon zest and fresh lemon juice together in a bowl.

2. Cut and arrange the mixed fruit accordingly.

3. Pour the yoghurt and ricotta mixture on top of the mixed fruit, covering the entire surface. Sprinkle brown sugar over it.

4. Bake it in the oven for over 5 to 7 min at a temperature of 170 deg C, or until the brown sugar forms into caramel.

5. It is done! Serve warm.

CHEF FAHMI WIDARTEChef Fahmi Widarte is the Corporate Chef of Greenfields, and has been there since 2012.

Before that, he was Corporate Chef of Rotoryana Prima, a leading food service kitchen supplier, and has also held appointments in various top hotels such as Atlantis Dubai, JW Marriott Jakarta and Hyatt Regency Bandung.

Durian Fiesta back with new creations

Krispy Kreme goes ChocoMania

G o o d w o o d Park Hotel’s Durian Fiesta is back, with its biggest one ever. Six new creations have been added to

the line-up of durian-centric goodies. The new items, all teeming with D24 durian

goodness, are the Durian Rainbow Ice Cream Cake, Durian Carrot-Walnut Cake; Durian

Macarons, Mini Durian Chocolate Wafer Rolls and Durian Egg Tartlets. These novel delights are available along with other iconic signature items such as the Durian Puff, Durian Mousse Cake, Durian Strudel, Durian Crêpe and D24 or “Mao Shan Wang” Durian Ice Cream. Most noteworthy is the return of the Durian Cappuccino Cake, back by popular demand after a three-year absence.

The Durian Fiesta at the Deli lasts until Aug 2.

Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Road, Singapore 228221, Tel: 6730 1786

Krispy Kreme has launched its limited edition ChocoMania doughnuts ($2.95 each) in three luscious flavours: Mocha Crisp, Coconut Chocolate Praline, and Chocolate Raspberry Kreme Filled.

These limited edition ChocoMania doughnuts are now available in Krispy Kreme stores island-wide until May 31.

Krispy Kreme has also opened to new outlets, in Jurong Point 2 and Suntec City.

Krispy Kreme Jurong Point 2 is located at 63 Jurong West Central 3, #01-31, and Krispy Kreme Suntec City is located at 3 Temasek Boulevard, #01-419/420.

Sorrel: Sensual eating

Sorrel’s bistronomy concept means that while its prices are affordable, the cuisine can be compared to fine dining

Forget the usual restaurants and cafes, Sorrel in the Telok Ayer district is truly an experience of the senses with “bistronomy” cuisine, at affordable prices

I must confess, I walked past Sorrel more than once in trying to find it. Not that the establishment is nondescript or easily-overlooked, rather, it sits sleekly in its case of shophouse units (with a classy combination of glass, metal and wood on its façade) and with a slightly withdrawn sideways door.

I hope that being nestled comfortably in its space will not be to its detriment. This is truly a dining experience that has to be, well, experienced. Not that every single dish was fantastic, of course.

Sorrel is aptly named after an herb that’s rich in flavour. This allusion to its namesake gives a hint at the inventive creations of Chef Johnston Teo, who began his career at the Raffles Hotel and subsequently honed his skills at The Tippling Club, Pollen and Jaan.

WHAT IS “BISTRONOMy”?The cuisine of Sorrel is described as “bistronomy”, which is basically a portmanteau of the words “bistro” and “gastronomy”. What this means for us laymen is that while it may be a small restaurant and its prices are affordable, the food can certainly be compared to the fine dining style and standards.

Instead of the common practice of choosing a French- or Japanese-inspired direction, for example, Chef Johnston’s culinary philosophy is to feature only the freshest and highest quality of seasonal ingredients that his team of chefs is able to obtain, and to let the flavours and culinary techniques of the world inspire him.

This frees him to focus on flavour combinations in the food. In fact, Chef Johnston enthuses about his passion in honing his craft, “You’re always pushing the envelope of what you do, thinking of new ways to surprise your guests and make people happy through food!”

A DIFFERENT ExpERIENCE OF DININGLunch at Sorrel is in an always novel omakase style (again, depending on the freshest ingredients available) in three and five courses ($45 and $88), while dinner is in mostly fixed five- and seven-course menus ($88 and $118).

What I tasted from the five-course dinner menu included Monkfish Liver with Pickled Cherries, Fennel and Almonds, and Pork Cheek with Pork Belly, Jamon, Braised Cabbage and Charred Onions. Both dishes had interesting ambrosial flavours that harmoniously melded together.

The Algae Pasta with Dill and Mussel Sauce, Pan Seared Octopus and Mussels was outstanding. The texture and flavour of the octopus was superb.

Truly, I couldn’t resist asking the chef how it was prepared because I was in disbelief! To give you just an idea of it, the exterior of the slice of octopus is lightly crispy, while the inside is very tender, moist and tasty.

ClIMAx IN AN AMuSE-BOuCHEIn addition to the five dishes on the menu, we were served several amuse-bouches. The Beetroot Sorbet and Vanilla Jelly with Hot Hibiscus Tea was, unquestionably, the climax. It was a thousand times more tantalising than its name sounds. It was pleasing in aesthetics, experience and flavours.

The beetroot sorbet (also much better than it sounds) sits pretty in the form of a sphere, atop a petite vessel housing the hibiscus tea. You slip the orb into your mouth, lift the lid and sip the hot tea. As the hibiscus tea melts the beetroot sorbet with vanilla jelly, all the flavours unravel together in a gentle grenade of yin and yang, with a revelation of flavours caressing and enchanting your tongue.

I know, this sounds like a highly-sensual experience. I hope you get to try it and tell me how you feel. Nonetheless, this is an amuse-bouche and not on the menu, so your fortune depends on the grace of Chef Johnston.

Sorrel, 21 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069620, Tel: 6221 1911, www.sorrel.sg

By Lester J Wan

OpENING HOuRS:Mon-Fri, Lunch: 12pm-2pm Mon-Fri, Dinner: 7pm-10pm Sat, Dinner: 7pm-10pm

The Beetroot Sorbet & Vanilla Jelly with Hot Hibiscus Tea is a gentle grenade of flavours that caress and enchant your tongue

The Pan Seared Octopus (with algae pasta) was unbelievably good

NEw REsTaURaNT

PAGE 15APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Being upside down keeps Mandy grounded

Top: Under Armour Eclipse Bra in Island Blue, $59

Fresh-faced Mandy Wee shares with Weekender her story on why she became a yoga instructor.

Words by Rydell Tan Photography by Frank Young

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Bright & bubbly Mandy Wee, 22,Student & yoga instructor

How did you start doing yoga? I found myself super inflexible as compared to everyone else. I even failed my sit-and-reach for NAPFA so I really wanted to improve my flexibility.

What made you continue to do yoga even with your busy schedule?Somehow yoga made me genuinely happy. But I did have a period of time when I had an eating disorder and my self-esteem was super-duper low, that ultimately resulted in mild depression and, during which, I was really down and upset all the time.

Practicing yoga really helped me pull through this time. I gained some weight and became a lot healthier.

Also, I can feel like myself during yoga. No one judges during yoga. It's a super individualistic kind of activity and it really just puts a positive spin on my life, which has been amazing so far.

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Form and function meet in beautiful harmony

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What attracted you to become a yoga instructor and not other mainstream jobs? I want to spread the goodness of yoga to other people who are also going through tough times. I could feel my instructors’ genuine willingness to help me to improve and, during the down period of my life, they really motivated and inspired me, which is something I’m very grateful for.

Do you hope to start a yoga school of your own one day? Definitely, yes, but only when I am ready, and not just financially but also mentally. I mean, it is a whole lot of commitment.

Why do you think there’s such a yoga craze now?Most probably because it’s been a trend in recent years and some people want to not feel “left out”. Or maybe because they really know about the goodness of yoga and they want to improve their mood and become healthier.

A lot of guys are also practicing yoga because it’s quite a challenge and they enjoy it.

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Xiaomi Redmi 2 and oppo n3: What’s their appeal?

tech Storm feature

Watch out Samsung and Apple, China-based smartphone companies are bulldozing their way through with innovation!

Trendy and hot smartphone brands such as Xiaomi and Oppo have redefined smartphone innovation, with serious upgrades in every edition (unlike you-know-who). These are not poorly made in China products which do not last or lack innovation; in fact they are the total opposite.

not Your run-of-the-Mill sMArtphoneWhoever thought that they could purchasea smartphone with higher than average specifications foramere$169?Orcouldhavea smartphone with a reversible camera so that perfecthigh-resolutionselfiescanbetaken?

Well,XiaomiandOppohavedone just thatand so much more.

xiAoMi redMi 2 AffordABilitYXiaomi’s general appeal is that it can offer consumers affordable smartphones with higher than average specifications. Redmi 2 isone of the most value-for-money smartphones in the market and is 50 per cent faster in processing speed, as compared to its predecessortheRedmi.

This is a significant upgrade when compared with certain elite smartphone makers, who produce smartphone after smartphone with minimal upgrades.

VAlue for MoneYRedmi 2 reallyworks as an all-round budgetsmartphone as it has specifications that can match mid-range smartphones. These include an 8MP rear camerawith flash, a 2MP frontcamera, a 4.7” HD display, HD recording abilities anda2200mAhbattery.

ACCessoriesNot only is the Redmi 2 affordable, itsaccessories are insanely affordable to boot. To put things into perspective, an external battery chargerandbatterycostsonlyalittleover$20.It would have been perfect if there was more RAM(1GBofRAMissufficientbutmoreneverhurt anyone) and a metallic finish to make it look less plastic.

Withbudgetsmartphones like theRedmi2,a lost or damaged smartphone will no longer cause that much heartache as it can now be easily replaced at a pocket-friendly price of $169!So,whoeversaidthatbeingcheapwillgetyounowhere?

China-brand smartphones are quickly catching up with Korean and American ones

oppo n3selfie GAloreGet ready for the selfie revolution!Whyhavetwosubparcameraswhenyoucouldhavejustone rotating and rever-sible awesome one?The world’s only smartphone with a reversible

16MP SchneiderKreuznach camera with flash, to be 2, makes the N3 aperfect selfie camera for all selfie queens and kings in the land [you know who you are].

The super cool reversible camera can be easily

controlled at a touch of a button, so there’s no hassle or time-wasting when capturing the moment!

ConstAnt updAtesOppo prides itself in constantly updating its operating system to provide consumers with the latest functionality. Expect the bugs on your smartphone to disappear and an operating system that only gets better with time, allowing you to personalise your device to every whim or demand.

speCifiCAtionsThe N3’s specifications are similar to that of other elite smartphones, which include 2GBRAM,4GLTE,5.5”fullHDdisplayand3000mAhbattery for hundreds of perfectly-taken selfies to share with followers on Instagram. Because we all know that if it’s not on social media, it didn’t happen!

FashionedlikeahybridbetweenaSamsungNote 4 because of its large screen size and an HTC One for its design, the N3 is definitely something to keep your eye on. It runs against giants like Samsung and Apple, pushing for innovation.

Currentlyavailableat$849,theN3isinthesimilar price range as elite smartphones.

By Geralyne Kaye

Tech Storm is a brand new destination for you to get plugged in to addictive tech trends, reviews on gadgets, apps and be inspired by the coolest start-up stories. Check us out at: www.techstorm.tv

weekender.com.sg

PAGE 21

weekender.com.sg

For more of the latest fashion launches and beauty & lifestyle tips, like & follow us at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Beauty in Brief

A variety of things you might need for better bodily health or better looks

Body beautifulThe Body Shop – Fuji Green Tea ranGeIt’s time to pamper your body inside out. With the new Fuji Green Tea range by The Body Shop, be prepared to rejuvenate, recharge and release stress.

Made from natural ingredients (mainly green tea), moisture, pamper and re-awaken your body with its detoxifying health benefits. The collection ranges from bath infusers to body butter to exfoliating soap.

Available at The Body Shop stores

Seed eye CoFFreT 1-day uVJapan’s leading contact lens manufacturer introduces a new concept for naturally-mesmerising and brighter eyes. Coming in three colours – Base, Natural and Rich makes – you can choose which best suits the mood or occasion.

Base make (12.8mm) is designed to complement the iris pattern, while Natural make (13.0mm) has a graduated tone with a strong outline that emphasizes the eye, and Rich make (13.2mm) gives a smoky and bolder look.

seedasia.sg/where-to-buy

pearlie WhiTe – BruShCare KidSToo many a times we fear the bristles of toothbrushes are not delicate enough for our children’s budding teeth but Pearlie White’s BrushCare Kids range of toothbrushes are made for that sole purpose.

To commemorate a milestone year in Singapore’s history, Singa the Lion is introduced to the animal-themed toothbrushes, encouraging a good and fun habit of brush time.

Available at selected pharmacies

penhaliGon oSTaraCreated by Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour, the new spring fragrance is greatly inspired by daffodil and is a modern interpretation of this delicate and incandescent flower.

Opening with a burst of spearmint and violet leaf layered with clementine and blackcurrant, which leads to a sun-drenched floral bouquet, the fragrance is specially tailored for spring/summer.

Available at Penhaligon stores

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

SHOPSavvyW

home inspirations

Get ideas for transforming your home

Get ideas for transforming your home

IndustrIal EdgEOur popular section continues with more inspiring ideas and home makeovers

With the burgeoning popularity of industrial home design, Artistroom looks at personalising each industrial interior with a

unique twist. In this 5-room HDB flat, the design team adopted a Scandinavian mentality when doing up the spaces.

They started by hacking away the walls and giving the interior a young, sprightly personality with a subtle industrial edge.

Seeing RedEvery corner of this flat has been put to good use – even the space by the window has been utilised. Here, the designers created a ledge that works as a study desk.

Particularly of note in this living room is their choice of furniture. A sanguine red sofa adds eye-catching colour to the mainly black, white and wood scheme, and is complemented by a rainbow of scatter cushions. In any open-concept home, it’s important to visually demarcate each space and, in this case, they ran a cream-coloured rug on the living room floor to clearly mark the boundaries of the space.

Complete tuRnaRoundThe spaciousness of this home was achieved after major reconstruction by the design team. Walls were torn down, rooms were combined and the layout was drastically altered to achieve this bright and spacious interior.

The living area, dining room and kitchen all sit comfortably next to one another in a design that’s reminiscent of a loft-style apartment. The black conduits that snake across the ceiling also add to the industrial vibe.

KitChen RuleSNow that the kitchen is free from the walls that used to confine it, Artistroom wanted to make

it the star of the home. Its prime position in the apartment means that the homeowner can see every corner of the communal space while standing in the kitchen.

The designers built a single galley using light blonde laminates that run along the back of the kitchen. They then clad the rest of the wall with white mosaic tiles and black grouting for a traditional café look. A long bar counter runs parallel to the cabinets, visually marking where the kitchen ends and the living room begins.

two in onePart of Artistroom’s plan to rejuvenate this apartment was to merge two rooms into a bedroom suite. The sleeping quarters remain petite but a large opening leads into the adjacent room, which has been converted into an en suite walk-in wardrobe and bathroom.

They also installed a sliding glass door – complete with a black steel frame and doorjamb – in case the owners want to close off the room.

taleS of textuReUnlike the living spaces, this impressive wardrobe and bathroom space flaunts the more rustic side of Scandinavian design. This includes laminates that mimic aged wood on the sliding wardrobe doors and a stretch of Peranakan-style tiles on the floor. The rest of the walls and floors are covered in dark tiles to bring out the cosy ambience the homeowners requested.

A luxuriously long vanity counter now runs the length of the bathroom, providing more than ample space for the owners’ lotions and potions. No doubt, it is a space that one can enjoy lingering in at the start or end of the day.

By Redzman Rahmat www.lookboxliving.com.sg

Article first published in Lookbox Living #36 May/Jun 2014

Lookbox Living #40 is out now! Available at major bookstores and news stands! For more interior projects, visit www.lookboxliving.com.sg

An opening leads into the adjacent room, con-verted into a walk-in wardrobe and bathroom

A bar counter runs parallel to the cabinets, marking where the kitchen ends and living room beginsWalls were torn down, rooms were combined and the layout was drastically altered to achieve this bright and spacious interior – the living area, dining room and kitchen all sit comfortably next to one another

A sanguine red sofa adds colour, and is complemented by a rainbow of scatter cushions

The wardrobe and bathroom space flaunt the rustic side of Scandinavian design

weekender.com.sg

PAGE 23

weekender.com.sg

Enlighten yourself on the rewards of investing in MediniProPerty watch

Hop on a fun and informative day trip to the Paradiso Nuova Development in Medini, Iskandar Malaysia

Everybody dreams of leading the charmed life in a world-class home in a world-class address. Now that dream can finally come true.

EvErything you Could Wish for in

a homEImagine living in a prestigious Central Business District address, surrounded by world-class entertainment amenities, the best retail and commercial shopping malls, internationally-acclaimed educational institutions and business brands, a state-of-the-art marina and the most luxurious residential enclaves. You’ll find all this and much more right here in the exciting, bustling capital city of

itinErary at a glanCE8.00am Gather at iProperty.com Singapore Office

8.30am Depart from Singapore to Paradiso Malaysia Grand Gallery, Medini

10.30am Arrival at Paradiso Malaysia Grand Gallery

11.00am Viewing of Grand Gallery Show Unit

12.00pm Learn about Zhuo Yuan Iskandar’s story-line through Sand Art Animation by artist Ester Yap

12.30pm ”Medini, The World in One City” seminar by Mr Khalil Adis

1.30pm ”Introducing Paradiso Nuova, Luxury Living at its Finest” by Mr Justin Chiu, Regional Manager, Zhuo Yuan Iskandar

2.00pm Experience Paradiso – Optional Site Tour of Medini (from 2.00pm to 6.00pm)

6.00pm Buses depart back to Singapore (at intervals of 15 minutes)

Iskandar Malaysia – Medini. Every residence at Paradiso Nuova is

blessed with spacious interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows offering unparalleled views of the upcoming Central Business District of Medini. A beautiful selection of 1+1 bedroom, 2-bedroom, 2+1 bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments await your deliberation.

Extraordinary invEstmEnt tErmsBe one of the privileged few to own a share of the unique parcel in the special economic zone of Southern Johor, under preferential property ownership conditions. Enjoy the easy ownership package, with no restrictions on ownership transfer to foreigners.

Every lot in Paradiso Nuova is an international lot, and what’s more, the first buyer is exempted from the Real Property Gain Tax (RPGT) until 2020. There is also exemption from the RM1 Million Ringgit threshold for foreigners.

mark your CalEndars for this day tripThere is no better time to visit the Paradiso Nuova Development in Medini, Iskandar Malaysia, than this Saturday, Apr 11. Successful registrants will assemble at the iProperty Singapore office at 8am before setting off, and can expect to depart back to Singapore from around 6pm.

On this informative trip to Paradiso Malaysia Grand Gallery, you will find out about investing in Medini from renowned Iskandar Malaysia Brand Ambassador, Mr Khalil Adis. In addition, the first 20 buyers will also enjoy gifts worth up to a total of $27,490. Special “star buy” units are exclusively available only for this event.

Limited slots available. Visit ibonus.iproperty.com.sg/zhuoyuan/ to register right now! Alternatively, SMS to 8511 1140 with your name and E-mail to register.

Free flow of pastries, canapés and finger food will be served throughout the event. With a full day of exciting programmes lined up to showcase luxury living at its finest in Iskandar Malaysia, be sure to make a date with us for this event!

APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

TRAVELATionW

Planning for your big getaway during the June holidays? here are five awesome hotels for an all-round fun and unforgettable time!

Wherever you travel to, your hotel can make or break your trip. So why not pick a memorable one that will have your travel companions raving about it months after your trip?

Take a break from shuffling through the endless amount of options for accommodation. Check out (and check into) some of these exciting hotels around the world. They’re fun for the whole family, and will provide a more extraordinary experience than the typical luxurious stay in a five- star suite.

2 ProPeller Island MobIle Hotel

Fun Feature: Upside down roomPrice: From €69 per night*Unlike what its name says, this hotel is neither mobile nor on an island. Also called Propeller Island City Lodge, this Berlin hotel offers 27 quirky-themed rooms across a range of prices.

The Upside Down and Flying Bed Rooms will give you the complete Alice in Wonderland experience, while the Two Lions Room comes equipped with elevated cages, where you can slumber like an animal. (There’s a regular bed too, if you’re feeling unadventurous.)

Can’t get enough of yourself? Bunk in the glimmering Mirror Room. There’s even a mysterious Curry Chicken Room. You would have to stay there to find out what it’s all about.

For more information and bookings, visit www.propeller-island.com/en.

1 V8 Hotel – Motorworld regIon

stUttgartFun Feature: Car wash roomPrice: From €135V8 Hotel, situated in the automotive epicentre of Stuttgart, Germany, is evidently very passionate about the local love for cars. It’s brimming with automobile-themed rooms, legendary vintage car collections and classic cars – sure to set the hearts of automotive enthusiasts racing.

Ten of its guest rooms are highly decorated, each with a unique charm of its own. Be surrounded by the night sky as you camp out in a vintage car bed in the Drive In Cinema Room, or revisit an old-school car wash in the Car Wash Room!

There’s a big discount for families, with extra beds or connected rooms upon request. And you thought car beds were only made for kids.

For more information and bookings, visit www.v8hotel.de/en.

3 tHe llaMas PyjaMas b&b

Fun Feature: dining with llamasPrice: From £75This might be one of the cutest guest houses in the United Kingdom! Situated in Penrith, a little market town in England near the English Lakes, The Llamas Pyjamas offers Peruvian-themed rooms, a relaxing café and a garden full of furry llamas.

Here, you and the kids can pet llamas, chat with llamas, trek with llamas, and basically chill out with llamas in pyjamas. Well, you’d be the one in pyjamas because llamas don’t wear pyjamas.

If you’re travelling with a group of six, you can stay at the cosy and quaint Barn Owl Cottage and admire the creatures that wander into the garden. There are also several nature walks offered here for you to interact with the wildlife of Penrith.

For information and bookings, visit www.llamaspyjamas.co.uk.

4 woodlyn Park

Fun Feature: Hobbit MotelPrice: From nZ$285Why choose a simple hotel room when you could be staying in your very own Hobbit hole? Woodlyn Park offers the world’s first Hobbit motel, a stretch of fully-equipped suites that look as though the Hobbits of Middle Earth came and set up home.

Each unit can accommodate up to six people, and comes furnished with kitchen and bathroom facilities. Don’t worry though; the furniture and décor are all constructed to human scale!

Not familiar with JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit? Woodlyn Park is also home to the equally-popular Train Carriage, the Waitanic Ship and

Aeroplane Motels, where you can stay in life-sized replicas of these vehicles. It’s sure to score points with the kids.

For more information and bookings, visit www.woodlynpark.co.nz.

5 nICkelodeon sUItes resort

Fun Feature: slime timePrice: From Us$169It doesn’t sound very appealing, but getting drenched by Nick Slime is almost every child’s fun fantasy. The Nickelodeon Suites Resort is your chance to get slimed!

Nick Slime is a signature gag of popular children’s channel Nickelodeon. You may recognise some of its series: Spongebob Squarepants, Dora the Explorer and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Of course, there are many other attractions here too, such as a humungous waterpark, dining with characters, live performances by popular characters and more.

But most guests come here to get slimed, be it at a team challenge, poolside war or mass sliming. Don’t shy away from the gooey green stuff – your kids will enjoy the slime of a lifetime!

For more information and bookings, visit www.nickhotel.com.

By Pamela Chow

*Prices may vary

Book this room for a return trip to Wonderland, where you can sleep on a levitating bed!

Spend a day or a few surrounded by these friendly furry creatures

Experience the Hobbit life at the world’s first Hobbit motel in Woodlyn Park

Feel like you’re watching a movie under the stars in the Drive In Cinema Room at V8 Hotel

Get slimed by Nickelodeon’s iconic Nick Slime

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5 Wacky family-friendly hotels around the World

travel Feature

Congratulations to the winners!Winners will be contacted directly on the collection.

Look out for more Weekender giveaways in upcoming issues.

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APRIL 10 - 23, 2015

TRAVELATionw wEEkEndER.com.sg

PAGE 26

These are among the best places on Earth to experience and to snap that perfect travel photo

A search for Kawachi Fuji Garden even on all-knowing Google offers very little information. But this elusive fairy land is no fantasy – Kitakyushu’s wisteria flower tunnel may be hard to get to but it’s totally worth the visit.

Garlands of purple wisteria flowers trail downwards from the arch, forming a magical, ethereal pathway. Catch it during its Golden Week between April and May, when the wisterias are in full bloom.

Kawachi Fuji Garden is located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture. Its nearest station is Yahata Station, where you can hop on a 20-minute taxi ride to the garden.

Japan’s great wisteria flower arch

picture perfectPicturesque spots to experience & capture with your camera

Brave the world’s oldest amusement park

Bucket ListExceptional ideas to experience in

your lifetime

This popular amusement park in Denmark was built long ago, in the 16th Century – would you dare to sit on its rides?

Dyrehavsbakken is the oldest amusement park on Earth – almost 450 years old. There’s a winding wooden roller coaster that’s been operating since 1932. Would you brave it?

Millions of people do so every year. Don’t worry; despite the park’s old age, there are no rickety rides here. Dyrehavsbakken, meaning “The Deer Park Hill” in Danish, is a popular amusement park that’s totally safe for enjoyment.

A FAvourite in HistorySince 1583, the park – more commonly called Bakken (“Hill”) – has drawn crowds from around Copenhagen, Denmark during the spring and summer periods, a trend that has persisted even until today.

Residents of Copenhagen were attracted to the hill’s natural spring, which was believed to have curative properties, and soon even entertainers and hawkers began setting up booths here – originating what is now known as amusement parks.

As Bakken continued to flourish – also thanks to publicity from poets and authors – visitors began to flock here from all over Europe. One of them, a clown named Pjerrot, has now become a mascot of the park.

Modern rides on Ancient LAndBakken may have been around for ages, but it is now a bustling theme park filled with modern rides, attractions and amenities.

Here, you can ride on six roller coasters, one of which has a wooden track and swoops at a speed of 75km/h up 22m into the sky! This one’s called Rutschebanen – Danish for “The Roller Coaster” – and has been open since 1932 (don’t worry, it’s constantly checked and maintained). It is Bakken’s most famous ride, and has been listed as a Coaster Classic by American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Bakken is also home to many other rides and attractions suitable for all ages. It has seven gaming halls with carnival-style games, slot machines and dancing. Pjerrot the clown performs every day for young children. You can catch a cabaret at Bakkens Hvile music

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There is a variety of themed attractions for hours of fun at Bakken

hall, and even a live circus performance at the Circus Revue.

You can catch a cabaret at Bakkens Hvile music hall, and even a live circus performance at the Circus Revue.

And no visit to a traditional amusement park is complete without food! Bakken has dozens of options, from street food vendors, to buffets, to fancy wine-and-dine restaurants. Treat the kids to quintessential hamburgers and cotton candy, or sample traditional Danish cuisine.

WHen And HoW to visitDo note that Bakken is open daily only from end-March to end-August. Entry to the park is free but rides, attractions and food come at a fee. You can purchase discounted coupons, wristbands and season passes online or at the site.

The park is only a 10-minute drive from the city of Copenhagen. If you’re not driving, you can catch a train on the C-line from the main station in Copenhagen and alight at Klampenborg, the last station.

Bakken is nestled in the woods of Dyrehaven. It’s like venturing into the forest, and being greeted with a nice surprise of nostalgia and fun. This is certainly a must-see when in Europe!

By Pamela Chow

The Rutschebanen is Bakken’s most popular and oldest ride, a wooden coaster stretching 22m into the sky

Bakken is home to many rides and attractions suitable for all ages

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The entry to Bakken amusement park in Copenhagen, Denmark

weekender.com.sgAPRIL 10 - 23, 2015

Promotion is valid from 10 April 2015 – 9 May 2015

PARTICIPATING OUTLETS

Blk 632 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 #01-952 • Blk 761 Yishun Street 72 #01-344 • Blk 173 Yishun Avenue 7 #01-827 • Blk 748 Yishun Street 72 #01-224 • Blk 448 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 #01-1703 • Blk 664 Yishun Avenue 4 #01-279 • Blk 103 Yishun Ring Rd #01-79 • Blk 605 Yishun Street 61 #01-311 • Blk 338 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 #01-1609 • Blk 291 Yishun Street 22 #01-347 • Blk 136 Marsiling Road #01-2186 • Blk 107 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 #01-156 • Blk 156 Yishun Street 11 #01-108 • Blk 554 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 #01-2052

Blk 74 Whampoa Drive #01-334/336 • Blk 116 Toa Payoh Lorong 2 #01-146 • Blk 61 Telok Blangah Heights #01-111 • Blk 28 Jalan Bukit Merah #01-4466 • Blk 49 Tanglin Halt Road #01-349 • Blk 234 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 #01-274 • Blk 214 Serangoon Avenue 4 #01-104 • No. 130/132 Rangoon Road • Blk 203 Toa Payoh North #01-1115 • Blk 58 Lengkok Bahru #01-509 • Blk 71 Seng Poh Road #01-33 • Blk 24 Bendemeer Road #01-547 • Blk 46-2 Commonwealth Drive #01-360 • Blk 77 Telok Blangah Drive #01-228 • Blk 22 Boon Keng Road #01-29

NORTH SOUTH

VALUEGREATAPRIL

BUYS

Blk 36 Circuit Road #01-412 • Blk 303 Anchorvale Link #01-04 • Blk 267 Compassvale Link #01-01 • Blk 280 Tampines Street 22 #01-244 • Blk 124 Hougang Avenue 1 #01-1432 • Blk 2 Lorong Lew Lian #01-42 • Blk 309 Hougang Avenue 5 #01-291 • Blk 297 Compassvale Street #01-01 • Blk 343 Tampines Street 33 #01-318 • Blk 511 Hougang Avenue 10 #01-149 • No. 166 Upper East Coast Road • Blk 78 Circuit Road #01-484 • Blk 110 Lengkong Tiga #01-237 • Blk 440 Hougang Avenue 8 #B1-1567 • Blk 632 Bedok Reservoir Road #01-846 • Blk 59 New Upper Changi Road #01-1218 • Blk 327 Hougang Avenue 5 #01-170 • Blk 369 Tampines Street 34 #01-21 • 2 Tampines Place #01-65

22 Begonia Road • Blk 435 Bukit Panjang Ring Road #01-661 EAST WEST

BEAUTEXSuper Save Kitchen Towel厨房纸巾6 x 60s

UP: $4.40

$370

COLGATE ToothpasteTotal Pro Whitening/Total Clean Mint/Total Pro Clean Paste/Total Charcoal Deep Clean/Total Pro Sensitive牙膏多种选择150g

UP: $4.80

$350

TIGER BALMRed/White万金油红/白19.4g

UP: $4.60

$290MAMY POKOPants 纸尿裤Size S 38s/Size M 34sDiapers纸尿片Size XL 34s/Size XXL 38s

UP: $13.40 each

$1290

$5MAMA LEMONDishwashing LiquidRegular/Lemon Gold碗碟清洁剂普通/天然柠檬750ml x 3

DOVEBody Wash RefillGo Fresh Aqua/Sensitive Skin/Beauty Rebalance/Beauty Nourishing沐浴露补充装多种选择650ml

UP: $4.95 each

$470DETTOLShower Gel + RefillOriginal/Cool/Fresh/Re-energize/Natural Nourishing/Radiance沐浴露 + 补充装多种选择950ml + 450ml

UP: $8.80 each

$850

JOHNSON’SBaby Bath RefillHypoallergenic/Milk + Rice/Peach婴儿沐浴露补充装多种选择600ml

UP: $3.90 each

$370THIRSTY HIPPO除湿剂600ml x 3 + 1 Free

UP: $7.95

$690

HEAD & SHOULDERSShampoo Clean & Balance/Menthol/Smooth & Silky/Dry Scalp洗发液多种选择675ml

UP: $9.90

$950

DYNAMOLiquid Detergent Downy Passion/Anti Bacteria/Regular 洗衣剂多种选择4.1kg/4.4kg

UP: $12.90

$1260

SHOKUBUTSUBeauty Body Foam Refill Whitening/Revitalizing/Firming/Soothing沐浴泡沫补充装多种选择600ml

UP: $4.25 each

$7602 for

$660DETTOLLiquid Hand Soap Original/Fresh/Sensitive/Skincare/Nourish洗手液多种选择250ml x 2 + 250ml

UP: $6.95 each

Free Downy 400ml with every purchase BEAUTEX

3 Ply Pocket Tissue三层包装纸巾6 x 12 x 8s

UP: $5.50

$490

each each each

each each

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ADVERTISEMENT

Promotion is valid from 10 April 2015 – 9 May 2015

PARTICIPATING OUTLETS

VALUEGREATAPRIL

BUYS

Blk 632 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 #01-952 • Blk 761 Yishun Street 72 #01-344 • Blk 173 Yishun Avenue 7 #01-827 • Blk 748 Yishun Street 72 #01-224 • Blk 448 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 #01-1703 • Blk 664 Yishun Avenue 4 #01-279 • Blk 103 Yishun Ring Rd #01-79 • Blk 605 Yishun Street 61 #01-311 • Blk 338 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 #01-1609 • Blk 291 Yishun Street 22 #01-347 • Blk 136 Marsiling Road #01-2186 • Blk 107 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 #01-156 • Blk 156 Yishun Street 11 #01-108 • Blk 554 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 #01-2052

Blk 74 Whampoa Drive #01-334/336 • Blk 116 Toa Payoh Lorong 2 #01-146 • Blk 61 Telok Blangah Heights #01-111 • Blk 28 Jalan Bukit Merah #01-4466 • Blk 49 Tanglin Halt Road #01-349 • Blk 234 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 #01-274 • Blk 214 Serangoon Avenue 4 #01-104 • No. 130/132 Rangoon Road • Blk 203 Toa Payoh North #01-1115 • Blk 58 Lengkok Bahru #01-509 • Blk 71 Seng Poh Road #01-33 • Blk 24 Bendemeer Road #01-547 • Blk 46-2 Commonwealth Drive #01-360 • Blk 77 Telok Blangah Drive #01-228 • Blk 22 Boon Keng Road #01-29

NORTH SOUTH

Blk 36 Circuit Road #01-412 • Blk 303 Anchorvale Link #01-04 • Blk 267 Compassvale Link #01-01 • Blk 280 Tampines Street 22 #01-244 • Blk 124 Hougang Avenue 1 #01-1432 • Blk 2 Lorong Lew Lian #01-42 • Blk 309 Hougang Avenue 5 #01-291 • Blk 297 Compassvale Street #01-01 • Blk 343 Tampines Street 33 #01-318 • Blk 511 Hougang Avenue 10 #01-149 • No. 166 Upper East Coast Road • Blk 78 Circuit Road #01-484 • Blk 110 Lengkong Tiga #01-237 • Blk 440 Hougang Avenue 8 #B1-1567 • Blk 632 Bedok Reservoir Road #01-846 • Blk 59 New Upper Changi Road #01-1218 • Blk 327 Hougang Avenue 5 #01-170 • Blk 369 Tampines Street 34 #01-21 • 2 Tampines Place #01-65

22 Begonia Road • Blk 435 Bukit Panjang Ring Road #01-661 EAST WEST

100PLUSIsotonic Drink等滲饮料1.5ml

UP: $1.90 each

$3302 for

BRAND’SEssence of Chicken鸡精70g x 6

UP: $15.90

$1380

CHACHO’SCheesy Cheese/Spicy Curry/BBQ Bonanza玉米片多种口味80g /185g

UP: $1.50/$2.95 each

$120 / $270CORNTOZCheese Ring/Chilli Cheese/Hot & Spicy/BBQ芝士零食多种口味50g

UP: $0.70 each

$1953 for

HAND BRANDGroundnuts花生120g

UP: $1.70

$135

PAULSUHT MilkAssorted 牛奶纯/低脂/脱脂1L

UP: $2.40

HarmuniRice 泰国香米5kg

UP: $13.10

$1150

MILO/ NESCAFEReady to Drink CanOriginal/Mocha/Latte罐装饮料多种口味240ml

UP: $1 each

$4956 for

$820ROYAL UMBRELLAFragrant Rice皇族安培哪香米2.5kg

UP: $9.40

$690TAJPonni Rice印度香米5kg

UP: $8.80

POCARI SWEATCan罐装饮料330ml

UP: $0.70 each

$3956 for

$150NARCISSUSLychee in Syrup糖水荔枝567g

UP: $1.90

RIBENARegular/Blueberry/Glucose/Light/Apple/Blackcurrant & Strawberry 利宾纳饮料多种口味 1L

$770

TWISTIES CHIPSTEROriginal/Sour Cream & Onion/Hot & Spicy薯片多种口味60g

UP: $1.30 each

$2302 for

$2202 for

$3752 for

TWISTIESBig Cheese/Chicken/Tomato/Lime Chilli/Chilli Cheese零食多种口味65g

UP: $1 each

$085

$690QUAKERQuick Cook Oatmeal/ Instant Oatmeal快煮燕麦1.2kg + 150g

UP: $7.60

TIGER BISKUATSusu/Original/Chocolate饼干多种口味175g/198g

UP: $1.50

$125MY KUALIPenang White Curry Noodles槟城白咖喱面4s

UP: $3.90

$350

MISSIONTortilla Chip Original/BBQ/Garlic & Butter/Hot & Spicy玉米片多种口味65g

UP: $1.25 each

$690JACOB’SWeetameal/Hi-Iron/Cream Cracker Delish/Hi-Fibre/Low Sodium Hi-Fibre饼干多种口味750g /800g

UP: $7.30

CARLSBERGGreen啤酒323ml x 12s

SPECIAL PRICE

Free Coaster with every purchase!

COKE1.5L可口可乐饮料

UP: $2 each

$3302 for

Free Doraemon premium with every purchase!

eacheach each

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